Residents over 50 in the Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough can submit their views on key challenges through a public survey ahead of an Older People’s Parliament due to take place at Stormont on 15 October.

The survey, which closes on 24 July 2026, covers issues including the cost of living, healthcare, housing and transport. It follows a similar session in November 2024 where concerns were raised about health and social care, rising living costs, housing, transport, accessibility and digital inclusion.

Lord Mayor Cllr Mary O’Dowd said it was important that people make their voices heard and encouraged everyone aged over 50 to complete the survey.

Separately, the council has launched a PEACEPLUS-funded Age Friendly programme that will run a series of workshops across the borough over the next two years.

The project is supported by £6,759,997 from PEACEPLUS, managed by the Special EU Programmes Body, for a four-year programme of social, community, cultural and capital initiatives.

Workshops will follow six themes: Keep Active, Keep Well, Keep Connected, Keep Informed, Keep Creative and Keep Learning, each lasting six weeks with 2.5-hour sessions.

The programme aims to promote volunteering, digital skills, and connections with local services, as well as arts, crafts, heritage activities and intergenerational projects.

Tenders are now being sought from local groups, organisations and charities to deliver the workshops. Details are available on the eTendersNI portal.

Residents can complete the survey online, by phone on 028 9052 1761 or 028 9052 1440 (Monday to Friday, 10am to 2pm), or by requesting paper copies via email. Those interested in the Age Friendly email updates can sign up by emailing agefriendly@armaghbanbridgecraigavon.gov.uk or calling 07825 010630.